The EU Settlement Scheme is now fully operational and with Brexit as a top agenda item for the new Prime Minister, we expect a surge in these applications. So how long do these applications take?

The expected processing time for an EU Settlement Scheme application is 5 working days if no further information is required, but it can take up to a month. The processing time starts when you have submitted your application and your supporting documents.

If you have applied using the EU Exit app, you can expect the processing time to begin when you have submitted the online application. If you choose to submit your identity documents by post, this time would start when the documents are received by the Home Office.

For family members of EU nationals who are required to provide their biometrics, processing starts after they have provided their fingerprints at a UKVCAS centre.

Why is my application taking longer to process?

In most cases, if your application is taking longer to process, there is nothing to worry about. We have seen that because of the sheer number of people applying, the Home Office can take longer to provide a decision. Your application may also take longer to process if:

• The Home Office needs more information from you – they are likely to email you requesting this information
• The applicant is a child and has applied on his own
• You have made a paper application – Whilst there are no paper forms to be found on the government website, some applicants such as those under the Surinder Singh route, or those who are vulnerable, will need to request a paper form from the Home Office, which will be issued on a case-by-case basis
• You have a criminal record – Our advice is to seek legal advice if you have a criminal record as you may need to consider your eligibility or whether extra information needs to be provided.
• You are a non-EEA or non-Swiss national and your application is based on relationship that you have not previously relied on – we would also recommend seeking legal advice if you fall within this category.

For family members of EU nationals who are required to provide their biometrics, processing starts after they have provided their fingerprints at a UKVCAS centre.

When will my documents be returned?

This only applies to you if you made your application by post or sent in your identity documents.  The Home Office normally takes 3 days to return your documents, from the date they were received.